Tom.............I use white wood ash and water a VERY diluted mixture much less than hair removal on skins. I check once a day ta see when I want ta remove them and I feel the glycerine is gone, ya need ta use some ash ta make it work. Was way I was taught, works good an totally primitive, ifn that matters ta ya. Pappy's method of brake cleaner is good , takes much less time but I aint in any hurry. Healthy pre-columbian attitude eh ? Dana wanted ta know so I hope he reads this also...........bob